Key Takeaways

  • Hard cider isn’t just for fall—sip it in winter too
  • It makes a tasty alternative to beer or wine for holiday gatherings
  • Try warmed or spiced hard ciders on cozy evenings by the fire
  • Available in sweet, dry, or infused varieties
  • Pair it with winter foods such as cheese, pork, or root vegetables

When the temperatures start to plummet, all you want is to warm your belly and soul with a touch of seasonal cheer. For many, hard cider fits the bill. While often associated with crisp autumn days, hard cider is also a perfect winter beverage—especially when you serve it warm or infused with spices.

Boasting a light, refreshing profile, hard ciders are worlds apart from your typical heavy winter ales or sugary cocktails. There are many ways to enjoy hard ciders, from sweet to dry to anywhere in between. No matter your preference, there’s a hard cider out there for you that’s sure to please your palate.

Hard ciders can be:

Paired With Winter Comfort Foods

You can’t go wrong drinking hard cider alongside rich, hearty meals such as:

  • Roast pork
  • Baked brie
  • Aged cheddar
  • Herbed root vegetables

Because the apple base cuts through fat and salt, each bite of hearty winter fare tastes balanced and fresh.

Served Warm and Spiced

Nothing says a cozy winter day like hard cider warmed on the stovetop sprinkled with some seasonal spices such as:

  • Cinnamon sticks
  • Cloves
  • Orange peel
  • Star anise

The perfect fireside drink, warm spiced hard cider can even be a festive alternative to mulled wine at holiday events.

Festive For Celebrations

If you are hosting a holiday party, nothing pleases a crowd more than hard cider. That’s because beer drinkers and wine lovers alike tend to gravitate toward in-the-middle alternatives like hard cider. One way to elevate your holiday gathering is to serve a cider tasting flight with a variety of local brews such as cranberry-infused, semi-dry apple, or barrel-aged versions. Add a bit of spritz with a dash of sparkling wine.

A Seasonal Staple

Thanks to its versatility, light effervescence, and seasonal flavors, hard cider is the perfect complement to your day or evening when you want to cozy up at home or entertain guests.

This year, toast the season with a refreshing glass of hard cider from your local cider mill!